Pakistan-Afghanistan Ceasefire Nears Its End: PM Shehbaz Faces Isolation as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa CM Raises Tensions

Islamabad (The Uttam Hindu): As the clock ticks down to the expiry of the Pakistan-Afghanistan ceasefire, political and security tensions are escalating in Islamabad. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif appears increasingly isolated, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur openly challenging the federal government’s handling of the volatile border situation.

Ceasefire Countdown Begins

The temporary truce between Pakistan and Afghanistan, brokered to ease cross-border hostilities, is just hours away from expiring. Both sides have accused each other of repeated violations, and border communities remain on high alert. Security agencies in Pakistan’s northwestern belt, especially in the tribal districts, have been instructed to stay vigilant as intelligence reports warn of possible militant movements.

Political Rift Deepens

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government is facing mounting criticism from opposition leaders and provincial authorities alike. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa CM Ali Amin Gandapur has accused the central government of “failing to protect Pakistan’s sovereignty” and neglecting the concerns of local populations living along the Durand Line.

Reports suggest that the Chief Minister has even directed provincial forces to remain “self-reliant” in case of renewed cross-border aggression, an action seen as defiance of Islamabad’s authority.

Tense Border, Uncertain Future

The situation has further complicated Pakistan’s internal political equation. Analysts believe that any collapse of the ceasefire could not only reignite hostilities with Afghanistan’s Taliban regime but also fuel domestic unrest in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a province already battling militancy and governance challenges.

Security experts warn that the coming 24 hours will be critical. A breakdown of the ceasefire may push Pakistan to redeploy troops along the western frontier, potentially stretching its already burdened military resources.

Regional Stability at Stake

International observers, including the United Nations and regional allies like China, are monitoring the developments closely. A renewed conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan could destabilize the entire South Asian region, threatening trade routes and border cooperation efforts that were showing slow signs of recovery.

With the ceasefire clock winding down, all eyes are on Islamabad and Kabul—whether diplomacy will prevail or another chapter of border conflict will begin remains uncertain.